A local’s guide to Córdoba, Spain: 10 top tips

This ancient Andalucían city boasts world-famous Moorish architecture, beautiful courtyard patio houses and a revitalised riverside full of cafes and bars

The Mezquita-Catedral is the attraction everybody talks about, because it’s incredible. Originally a mosque, built in the 10th century, it later became a cathedral. Being local I don’t pay to get in, but anyone can get in for free by showing up at 8.30am while they’re preparing for the service – although they push you out at 9.20am. There’s a tower with a nice view, though it’s best to stand inside in a corner, in front of one of the hundreds of columns, and take in the whole space. Córdoba is one of the warmest cities in Europe, so this building, which stays very cool, is a good place to be. • Calle Cardenal Herrero 1, ¤10, under-10s free, mezquita-catedraldecordoba.es